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The Kybalion
By The Three Initiates
The Yogi Publication Society Masonic Temple
Chicago, Illinois. 1912

We continue our reading of The Kybalion and explore the principles of Rhythm and Causation. Rhythm is our constant companion as we move along the course of our making and create the existence we wish to attract. Causation is the container of receipt and return that demands we be ever mindful of our actions and the consequences that ensue. It is the great rule maker that shapes our destiny as we go about our work of checks and balances at every turn.

The fine points of each of these principles comes in awareness that they are all pervasive and unavoidable in their impact on this and every lifetime’s experience. They are also the life within the essence of creation itself. The rhythmic contractions of the birth canal are the only way to naturally birth what was quickened. And, the effect of a union of polarities on all levels of existence is the causation of something Divine to be spawned.

Chapters Eleven and Twelve

Chapter Eleven: Rhythm

“Everything flows out and in; everything has its tides; all things rise and fall; the pendulum-swing manifests in everything; the measure of the swing to the right, is the measure of the swing to the left; rhythm compensates”

This principle of Rhythm surrounds and permeates everything in the manifest and non-manifest world. It’s feeling is one very much akin to the Cause and Effect, in that each produces the other; yet its expression is one that spans a broad base of similarity, disparity, autonomy, singularity, equanimity and more. For every Yin there is a Yan that is inherently composed of the same ingredients yet expresses itself as it will in accord with what other laws mold and shape it. These statements are expressed below…..

“ The Principle of rhythm is closely connected with the Principle of Polarity described in the preceding chapter. Rhythm manifests between the two poles established by the Principle of Polarity. This does not mean, however, that the pendulum of Rhythm swings to the extreme poles, for this rarely happens; in fact, it is difficult to establish the extreme polar opposites in the majority of cases. But the swing is ever “toward” first one pole and then the other.”

Now let’s also add what we have learned of the Law of Vibration in the preceding chapters……

“The Hermetic Teachings are that not only is everything in constant movement and vibration, but that the “differences” between the various manifestations of the universal power are due entirely to the varying rate and mode of vibrations. Not only this, but that even THE ALL, in itself, manifests a constant vibration of such an infinite degree of intensity and rapid motion that it may be practically considered as at rest, the teachers directing the attention of the students to the fact that even on the physical plane a rapidly moving object (such as a revolving wheel) seems to be at rest. The Teachings are to the effect that Spirit is at one end of the Pole of Vibration, the other Pole being certain extremely gross forms of Matter. Between these two poles are millions upon millions of different rates and modes of vibration.”

So, if both statements are true than the “sweet spot” of interest regarding rhythm is indeed what lay between the two “extremes”. If we liken this to the idea of the ebb and flow of the nightly tides that place of rhythm could then be the mid-point between sea and shore where the maximum debris is gathered as it is carried in towards shoreline. The other rhythmical point would then be the mid-point between shore and sea, where what is selected from the shore is carried out towards endless ocean, much falling to the wayside in the process.

Now, let’s expand these thoughts to encompass the vastness and ebb and flow of the Universe….

“ Beginning with the manifestations of Spirit–of THE ALL–it will be noticed that there is ever the Outpouring and the Indrawing; the “Outbreathing and Inbreathing of Brahm,” as the Brahmans word it. Universes are created; reach their extreme low point of materiality; and then begin in their upward swing. Suns spring into being, and then their height of power being reached, the process of retrogression begins, and after aeons they become dead masses of matter, awaiting another impulse which starts again their inner energies into activity and a new solar life cycle is begun. And thus it is with all the worlds; they are born, grow and die; only to be reborn. And thus it is with all the things of shape and form; they swing from action to reaction; from birth to death; from activity to inactivity–and then back again. Thus it is with all living things; they are born, grow, and die–and then are reborn. So it is with all great movements, philosophies, creeds, fashions, governments, nations, and all else-birth, growth, maturity, decadence, death-and then new-birth. The swing of the pendulum is ever in evidence.”

We are the product of the rhythm of exchange between the macro and the micro-cosmos. And, this ideology is replicated ad infinitum in the acknowledgement that we are at once the vast universe of our physical being and the tiniest of holographic particles of light in the largess of the galaxies and stars. The natural conclusion from this process is the occurrence of effects to maintain a specific balance in all things thus created…..

“ There are other features of the operation of this Principle of Rhythm of which we wish to speak at this point. There comes into its operations that which is known as the Law of Compensation. One of the definitions or meanings of the word “Compensate” is, “to counterbalance” which is the sense in which the Hermetists use the term.”

Again, this idea of compensation is one that we as human beings are very familiar with. We continually are in the process of maintaining what we have achieved/acquired and in that action bringing on board the necessary tools/ingredients to successfully keep the scales from tipping too far in either extreme/excess. When we fail at these attempts our state of balance and rhythm is upset. This is a core concept underpinning the practices of Auyurveda and Chinese Medicine. When the doshas/elements within the human constitution are imbalanced (note- this does not mean everything being equal! It means having the compensatory state of balance in comparison with what it is trying to counter-balance), dis-ease and an upset to the natural and healthy rhythm of all of the physiologic systems occurs. The digestive system’s rhythm is off kilter. Circulation is not flowing rhythmically, neurological deficits and irritations occur and more.

If we seek out a practitioner to restore the balance, herbs and advice of methods of compensation ensue. The stimulating of the polarized form of what is lacking or the homeopathic approach of giving specific dosage of what is out of line to “compensate” and thus break the unhealthy rhythm of what that cycle was producing as toxin.

Taking this premise and applying it to the full experience of our corporeal and physical lives…

“ The Hermetists regard the chain of lives as continuous, and as forming a part of one life of the individual, so that in consequence the rhythmic swing is understood in this way, while it would be without meaning unless the truth of reincarnation is admitted. But the Hermetists claim that the Master or advanced student is able, to a great degree, to escape the swing toward Pain, by the process of Neutralization before mentioned. By rising on to the higher plane of the Ego, much of the experience that comes to those dwelling on the lower plane is avoided and escaped.”

We could consider this second paragraph as the Homeopathic effect as described previously; the same goal being that of neutralization. As we move through the cycles of lifetimes of experience we have for our use the lessons and the responses to various experience. The trick is in being able to tap into the Universal Rhythm that holds the keys to those memories. To those of the Eastern and Buddhist paths; the Siddhis/Yogis and Bodhisattvas one of the goals is to escape the pain and suffering of the wheel and eventually reach a place of enlightenment, having choice to return o physical incarnation or leave that Wheel as ascended master. The Hermeticists and those of Western philosophy tend more towards throwing themselves more fully into the world, embracing the pain and suffering and taking from it the lessons needed to effect growth. Each has its own natural rhythm and efficacy of effect, the expression and path of expression being the differentiating factors. In any case, we see the Law of Compensation playing its role in how and what responses are made to this physical incarnation of experience….

“ The things that one gains are always paid for by the things that one loses.” And….

“ The Law of Compensation is ever in operation, striving to balance and counter-balance, and always succeeding in time, even though several lives may be required for the return swing of the Pendulum of Rhythm.”

If we view life as a beautifully orchestrated piece of music that holds the intended rhythm for our spiritual growth in the pace and dynamics of its playing; this Law of Rhythm is one that we may easily get in step with. This is my interpretation of the Principle of Rhythm:

Principle the Fifth: The Principle of Rhythm

1-2-3, 1-2-3
The metronome strikes out the beat
The perfection of rhythm
The movement of feet.

Release and contraction
As above, so below
Measure upon measure
Synchronicity and flow.

The silent strings that are plucked
~ lips moving ~
Sound with not a single word
The pause carefully paced between breath
The call of Will to action
That with physical ears is not heard.

Crescendo and climax
Inspiration and exhale
Limitless space at its birthing
Spirit of humanity extending
And moving beyond its SELF
To part the veil.

Chapter Twelve: Causation

“Every Cause has its Effect; every Effect has its Cause; everything happens according to Law; Chance is but a name for Law not recognized; there are many planes of causation, but nothing escapes the Law.”

Now, we move into waters that continually shift, take on new form and etch out evolved paths that nonetheless are still interconnected despite the disparity of semantics. The concept of polarity generally is only identified within the ideas of male and female, right and left, up and down, white and black, and all the other attributions that are used as definition. Opposition is certainly part of this state, but that is only a small piece of a much larger piece of the puzzle.

Homeopathic principles make use of the similarity of substances and the resulting canceling out of the third product that is an aberrant expression of that similarity. One might not consider this to be polarity in action, but in act it is the creation of the antithesis produced by things of the same quality that sets up a new form of polarized response that acts on much the same way of repellant as light repels and (supplants) the dark.

“ The Principle of Cause and Effect underlies all scientific thought, ancient and modern, and was enunciated by the Hermetic Teachers in the earliest days. While many and varied disputes between the many schools of thought have since arisen, these disputes have been principally upon the details of the operations of the Principle, and still more often upon the meaning of certain words. The underlying Principle of Cause and Effect has been accepted as correct by practically all the thinkers of the world worthy of the name. To think otherwise would be to take the phenomena of the universe from the domain of Law and Order, and to relegate it; to the control of the imaginary something which men have called “Chance.”

This is the ripple or “butterfly effect” in action…..

“There is a relation existing between everything that has gone before, and everything that follows. A stone is dislodged from a mountain side and crashes through a roof of a cottage in the valley below. At first sight we regard this as a chance effect, but when we examine the matter we find a great chain of causes behind it. In the first place there was the rain which softened the earth supporting the stone and which allowed it to fall; then back of that was the influence of the sun, other rains, etc., which gradually disintegrated the piece of rock from a larger piece; then there were the causes which led to the formation of the mountain, and its upheaval by convulsions of nature, and so on ad infinitum. Then we might follow up the causes behind the rain, etc. Then we might consider the existence of the roof In short, we would soon find ourselves involved in a mesh of cause and effect, from which we would soon strive to extricate ourselves.”

“Light and Darkness are poles of the same thing, with many degrees between them. The musical scale is the same–starting with “C” you move upward until you reach another “C” and so on, the differences between the two ends of the board being the same, with many degrees between the two extremes. The scale of color is the same-higher and lower vibrations being the only difference between high violet and low red. Large and Small are relative. So are Noise and Quiet; Hard and Soft follow the rule. Likewise Sharp and Dull. Positive and Negative are two poles of the same thing, with countless degrees between them.”

Now, read it through again from the perspective of the Law of Cause and Effect. All of the previous Laws- Vibration, Rhythm, Correspondence, etc…. are products of and adhere to this law of Causation. Without the emptiness within the container to fill there would be nothing created with which to fill it. Each state is dependent on the other and in its simplest form encompasses a cycle of one causing the effect of the other, which stimulates a new cause to effect. Now read the above paragraph a third time. Just in that re-reading we have demonstrated the Law of Causation!

“ Just as a man has two parents, and four grandparents, and eight great-grandparents, and sixteen great-great-grandparents, and so on until when, say, forty generations are calculated the numbers of ancestors run into many millions–so it is with the number of causes behind even the most trifling event or phenomena, such as the passage of a tiny speck of soot before your eye.”

If we think of our world as being part of and also containing many worlds within it; each having their own plane of dynamic and because of the structure and vibration of each having their own nuance of interpretation of the great Laws, we may understand more fully the thought presented below….

“Nothing escapes the Principle of Cause and Effect, but there are many Planes of Causation, and one may use the laws of the higher to overcome the laws of the lower.”

In fact, we are making use of this principle to varying degrees when we engage in prayer, meditation and magickal working. We are drawing on what we have available to us through the diligence of our work (and I might add one of the primary effectors of that work being the expansion of our mental states of being and ability to navigate multiple levels of consciousness) of preparation to access the strands of causation required as ingredient towards successful manifestation. An example of this is the process of disease itself. It has been postulated that physical disease first manifests as a state of disruption at the level of the subtle bodies. If not addressed it will eventually manifest in the physical body and the work of treating at the level of the physical body becomes the source of healing. We have also seen that an individual may have been diagnosed with a terminal form of Cancer and given less that months or a few years to live. Yet, for some, when they employ what are considered to be alternative modalities- most of which have a spiritual and etheric component- there have been astounding results for some in living 7- 10 years beyond the initial prognosis. Despite their bodies increasingly metastasized.

In fact, I knew of such a man who had pancreatic cancer, known for its devasting and ravaging effects in a very short period of time. He had been given 6 months to live. This man was a music teacher extraordinaire and the Temple of his worship was in the work he did with kids who could not afford instruments; giving them his gift and love of music. His will to live was strong and he accessed a variety of healing modalities. The cancer continued to metastasize, but he missed very few days of work, the primary purpose being in reaching as many kids as he could before he died. He lived 7 more years and when he died, he had hundreds of children’s lives whom he had touched, many of whom pursued music as teachers and performers. This was a rare example, but it also reminds me of the power of purpose or cause, the effects that cause can have on maintaining a physical body, that should have long expired, to do the work and the effect on multiple planes of existence that were produced; not to mention how those lives effected others. Another fine living example is Dr. Stephen Hawking!….

“ Stop to think a moment. If a certain man had not met a certain maid, away back in the dim period of the Stone Age–you who are now reading these lines would not now be here. And if, perhaps, the same couple had failed to meet, we who now write these lines would not now be here. And the very act of writing, on our part, and the act of reading, on yours, will affect not only the respective lives of yourself and ourselves, but will also have a direct, or indirect, affect upon many other people now living and who will live in the ages to come. Every thought we think, every act we perform, has its direct and indirect results which fit into the great chain of Cause and Effect.”

In conclusion…

“ There is no such thing as Chance. The blind goddess has been abolished by Reason. We are able to see now, with eyes made clear by knowledge, that everything is governed by Universal Law-that the infinite number of laws are but manifestations of the One Great Law-the LAW which is THE ALL. It is true indeed that not a sparrow drops unnoticed by the Mind of THE AL–that even the hairs on our head are numbered–as the scriptures have said There is nothing outside of Law; nothing that happens contrary to it. And yet, do not make the mistake of supposing that Man is but a blind automaton-far from that. The Hermetic Teachings are that Man may use Law to overcome laws, and that the higher will always prevail against the lower, until at last he has reached the stage in which he seeks refuge in the LAW itself, and laughs the phenomenal laws to scorn. Are you able to grasp the inner meaning of this?”

Many will be familiar with the concept in Quantum Physics regarding the point of space within the quantum field that is affected and changes only because it has when it is observed. Similar in thought to the eternal philosophical query…

“ if a tree falls in a forest and no one is there to witness, does it make a sound?”

Using that as a frame of reference, I would also add that;

Neither the causation of movement, nor the causation of sound are important. Regardless of the fact held in either of these statements, the pondering of them effected a new seed of thought in response to the query….

This is my interpretation of the Principle of Causation:

Principle the Sixth: The Principle of Cause and Effect

Pull against the tides
The glistening sand and shell is revealed.

Open the heart in gratitude
And the crowd of humanity rushes in.

Retreat into the hollow space of silence
And the echo of sound is unbearable.

The Kybalion
By The Three Initiates
The Yogi Publication Society Masonic Temple
Chicago, Illinois. 1912

We continue our reading of The Kybalion and explore the principles of Vibration and Polarity. Now, we come to a space of concept that we can more clearly visualize, and comprehend in a more manifest way. We encounter vibration at every turn of our human existence. Most of its true workings remain “hidden in plain sight”, but the more overt forms are those of our bodies moving, the action of mechanical mechanisms such as cars, the starting up of a computer, the notifications from our phones, and countless others.

Polarity is another principle that surrounds. The dawning of sun’s light from the darkness of a night, a choice of coffee over tea, walking to work or driving, etc.. The usefulness of the fine points of each of these principles comes in the recognition of their more subtle forms of expression and thus gaining awareness of the order that is abundant in the Universe.

Chapters Nine and Ten

Chapter Nine: Vibration

“Nothing rests; everything moves; everything vibrates.”

Having been a professional ballet dancer and loving music, this chapter spoke to me at multiple levels of experience. Movement and the resultant vibration it causes as the flow ripples through the fabric of energetic matter is the core principle in the desire to move.

Let me explain this more fully. When we dance or move, we are in effect by the vibrations caused disrupting energy. We are manipulating and moving through, in and around it in a very specific way. The rhythm that is established is the result of friction between how fast we are vibrating and what resistance we are feeling as we move. You can easily try this out by putting on a piece of music, and trying to remain exactly on the beat with your motions. The point of discord arises when the rate of vibration that is being set by the music itself is either faster or slower than your own vibratory rate of motion. To the observer it appears that you are off the music and not in sync with what they are feeling of the musical vibration themselves. The quote below speaks to this very observation:

“The Hermetic Teachings are that not only is everything in constant movement and vibration, but that the “differences” between the various manifestations of the universal power are due entirely to the varying rate and mode of vibrations. Not only this, but that even THE ALL, in itself, manifests a constant vibration of such an infinite degree of intensity and rapid motion that it may be practically considered as at rest, the teachers directing the attention of the students to the fact that even on the physical plane a rapidly moving object (such as a revolving wheel) seems to be at rest. The Teachings are to the effect that Spirit is at one end of the Pole of Vibration, the other Pole being certain extremely gross forms of Matter. Between these two poles are millions upon millions of different rates and modes of vibration.”

One of the first premises that is taught is magickal workings and interaction with non-corporeal forms is that of the distinction of difference between corporeal and non-corporeal substance is the density of matter. Not only is density a consideration, ascending from the densest forms (manifest life) on a scale of more refined and less dense matter (non-corporeal and spiritual substance), but the rate of vibration changes in accord with the density of what must be vibrated….

“The Universal Ether, which is postulated by science without its nature being understood clearly, is held by the Hermetists to be but a higher manifestation of that which is erroneously called matter–that is to say, Matter at a higher degree of vibration–and is called by them “The Ethereal Substance.” The Hermetists teach that this Ethereal Substance is of extreme tenuity and elasticity, and pervades universal space, serving as a medium of transmission of waves of vibratory energy, such as heat, light, electricity, magnetism, etc. The Teachings are that The Ethereal Substance is a connecting link between the forms of vibratory energy known as “Matter” on the one hand, and “Energy or Force” on the other; and also that it manifests a degree of vibration, in rate and mode, entirely its own.”

In fact, if we refer back to a quote from Chapter Six regarding the exercise of visualization and the mental processes required….

“The Teacher instructs the student to form a Mental Image of something, a person, an idea, something having a mental form, the favorite example being that of the author or dramatist forming an idea of his characters; or a painter or sculptor forming an image of an ideal that he wishes to express by his art. In each case, the student will find that while the image has its existence, and being, solely within his own mind, yet he, the student, author, dramatist, painter, or sculptor, is, in a sense, immanent in; remaining within; or abiding within, the mental image also. In other words, the entire virtue, life, spirit, of reality in the mental image is derived from the “immanent mind” of the thinker. Consider this for a moment, until the idea is grasped.”

What remains of the holographic image is a form of vibration. Think of a radio and how much static occurs until you tune to just the right frequency that vibrates at the same level of reception. Tuning in to the correct vibration (or signal of frequency) calls the image you are seeking into clarity.

This bears repeating from Chapter Six and is most relevant in consideration of Vibration:

“The Hermetic Teachings concerning the process of the Mental Creation of the Universe, are that at the beginning of the Creative Cycle, THE ALL, in its aspect of Being, projects its Will toward its aspect of “Becoming” and the process of creation begins. It is taught that the process consists of the lowering of Vibration until a very low degree of vibratory energy is reached, at which point the grossest possible form of Matter is manifested. This process is called the stage of Involution, in which THE ALL becomes “involved,” or “wrapped up,” in its creation. This process is believed by the Hermetists to have a Correspondence to the mental process of an artist, writer, or inventor, who becomes so wrapped up in his mental creation as to almost forget his own existence and who, for the time being, almost “lives in his creation,” If instead of “wrapped” we use the word “rapt,” perhaps we will give a better idea of what is meant.”

Continuing the thought of the Qabalistic process, what is described above can be likened to the emanation of the energy of the spheres in the involutionary process from the Crown (or SOURCE) of Kether. I would recommend that you take a little side trip here and read through this basic information about the Qabalistic Tree of Life for a baseline of knowledge:

This is the premise of vibration that as we ascend on the scale the vibration is lighter in frequency and the sound is higher pitched. As the vibration slows, the sonorous sound of low pitch reaches deeply into stimulating us at a physical level. Think of the parade and the resonance of vibration felt usually in the stomach as the drums pass. The high pitch of flute is barely noticeable other than that of an irritating buzz that floats on the air like the hum of a bumble bee. The lower the vibration the greater the opportunity for something concrete and visceral to be experienced. However, this is not the only component needed, the mental construct or idea to be acted upon must be fueled with focused intent.

“A little reflection on what we have said will show the student that the Principle of Vibration underlies the wonderful phenomena of the power manifested by the Masters and Adepts, who are able to apparently set aside the Laws of Nature, but who, in reality, are simply using one law against another; one principle against others; and who accomplish their results by changing the vibrations of material objects, or forms of energy, and thus perform what are commonly called “miracles.”

As one of the old Hermetic writers has truly said: “He who understands the Principle of Vibration, has grasped the scepter of Power.”

We have now reached the point where more of these principles are overlapping in their meanings and are interwoven one within the other. And, so this observation bears repeating from Chapter Eight’s post….

“It is a fact well known to modern science, as well as to the Hermetists who have embodied the truth in their “Third Hermetic Principle,” that “everything is in motion; everything vibrates; nothing is at rest.” From the highest manifestation, to the lowest, everything and all things Vibrate. Not only do they vibrate at different rates of motion, but as in different directions and in a different manner. The degrees of the rate of vibrations constitute the degrees of measurement on the Scale of Vibrations–in other words the degrees of the Fourth Dimension. And these degrees form what occultists call “Planes” The higher the degree of rate of vibration, the higher the plane, and the higher the manifestation of Life occupying that plane. So that while a plane is not “a place,” nor yet “a state or condition,” yet it possesses qualities common to both. We shall have more to say regarding the subject of the scale of Vibrations in our next lessons, in which we shall consider the Hermetic Principle of Vibration.”

If we think about this definition, more clarity is given to the reasoning behind employing specific types of spiritual work that presumably raising the vibrational scale within the individual as a means of evolving. These practices have predominately an energetic component as the vehicle through which matter (or an identifiable physical effect) is created.

Kundalini Yoga is a prime example with purpose being to awaken the potent fire-like energy that sits at the base of the spinal column. This energetic elixir moves up the central column (etherically aligned with the physical spinal column) coiling around each of the subtle chakra centers, stimulating nerve, glands and subtle fields in a way that changes the vibratory rate of the practitioner. One of the goals being that of opening the Higher chakra centers thus making the practitioner a beacon of Light, self and Divine awareness and positively effective in mundane affairs and interactions.

Breath and mantra have long been used as means of transforming the individual’s vibratory rate. Specific breathing techniques (Breath of Fire) and a mantra such as “Om Mani Padme Om” work to regulate and refine the physiologic and adapt it to a higher rate of vibration that is more Universal in its energy. Specific positions sustained in Yoga practice working cohesively with all of the “limbs” of Yogic practice stimulate certain physiologic centers that are directly related to activating the subtle Spiritual centers. In these ways we strive to elevate ourselves to a place of resonance with the Divine. Words vibrate. The sound is at times held in the silence. This is my interpretation of the Principle of Vibration:

Principle the Third: The Principle of Vibration

Ripples of sound waves of form hovering-undulating shaken to the Core stirred, quickened and stimulated by the Cosmic touch.

Grid of matter- interwoven and formed by friction, movement- displacement whose resonance gathers the discord of harmony back into itself.

The chord is struck and its echo in frenzied activity darts here and there reverberating in a cavernous chamber nautilus-like paths guiding the trajectory of motion.

All appears silent and still of form until microscopic probes of light and energy reveal the seeming chaos of matter each moving in concert with the other creating the illusion of solidity and opaqueness of Light.

The chord is struck again and all play a game of musical chairs each rushing hurriedly to claim a new crevice, pocket or fold in the web of time.

reshaping-reforming-re-creating the illusory mask of a calm Sea in a field of matter pointing towards the horizon of manifestation.

Chapter Ten: Polarity

” Everything is dual; everything has poles; everything has its pair of opposites; like and unlike are the same; opposites are identical in nature, but different in degree; extremes meet; all truths are but half-truths; all paradoxes may be reconciled.”
Now, we move into waters that continually shift, take on new form and etch out evolved paths that nonetheless are still interconnected despite the disparity of semantics. The concept of polarity generally is only identified within the ideas of male and female, right and left, up and down, white and black, and all the other attributions that are used as definition. Opposition is certainly part of this state, but that is only a small piece of a much larger piece of the puzzle.

Homeopathic principles make use of the similarity of substances and the resulting canceling out of the third product that is an aberrant expression of that similarity. One might not consider this to be polarity in action, but in act it is the creation of the antithesis produced by things of the same quality that sets up a new form of polarized response that acts on much the same way of repellant as light repels and (supplants) the dark.

“Light and Darkness are poles of the same thing, with many degrees between them. The musical scale is the same–starting with “C” you move upward until you reach another “C” and so on, the differences between the two ends of the board being the same, with many degrees between the two extremes. The scale of color is the same-higher and lower vibrations being the only difference between high violet and low red. Large and Small are relative. So are Noise and Quiet; Hard and Soft follow the rule. Likewise Sharp and Dull. Positive and Negative are two poles of the same thing, with countless degrees between them.”

We see the dynamics of polarity at every turn within our mundane world. Everything that we formulate the mental attitude towards that is true by specific degrees is thus in turn only made a reality by what it is not! This is an important consideration in what we cling so tightly to as our truisms and absolutes. This is also the required flexibility and adaptability to what flows through our minds and ultimately is responded or reacted to by our hearts.

“Love and. Hate” are generally regarded as being things diametrically opposed to each other; entirely different; unreconcilable. But we apply the Principle of Polarity; we find that there is no such thing as Absolute Love or Absolute Hate, as distinguished from each other. The two are merely terms applied to the two poles of the same thing. Beginning at any point of the scale we find “more love,” or “less hate,” as we ascend the scale; and “more hate” or “less love” as we descend this being true no matter from what point, high or low, we may start. There are degrees of Love and Hate, and there is a middle point where “Like and Dislike” become so faint that it is difficult to distinguish between them. Courage and Fear come under the same rule. The Pairs of Opposites exist everywhere. Where you find one thing you find its opposite-the two poles.”

If we use this information in application to what we have learned of the Principal of vibration, we could say that what makes the varied layers of distinction between the scales of polarity of any given thing is perhaps its vibratory energy. Emotions, thoughts, what we experience in the sensorial world are all subject to the fluctuations of vibratory state. Perhaps the changes in that state are what come to be perceived as the differing polarities; which in that thought process infers that all emanates from the same singular source…..

“The student who is familiar with the processes by which the various schools of Mental Science, etc., produce changes in the mental states of those following their teachings, may not readily understand the principle underlying many of these changes. When, however, the Principle of Polarity is once grasped, and it is seen that the mental changes are occasioned by a change of polarity-a sliding along the same scale-the hatter is readily understood. The change is not in the nature of a transmutation of one thing into another thing entirely different-but is merely a change of degree in the same things, a vastly important difference.”

In conclusion…

“A knowledge of the existence of this great Hermetic Principle will enable the student to better understand his own mental states, and those of other people. He will see that these states are all matters of degree, and seeing thus, he will be able to raise or lower the vibration at will–to change his mental poles, and thus be Master of his mental states, instead of being their servant and slave. And by his knowledge he will be able to aid his fellows intelligently and by the appropriate methods change the polarity when the same is desirable. We advise all students to familiarize themselves with this Principle of Polarity, for a correct understanding of the same will throw light on many difficult subjects.”

Many will be familiar with the adage:

“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder”

Using that as a frame of reference, I would also add that;

…Polarity is only a matter of difference to the eye that cannot truly behold the beauty

of differing scale of light seen within a singular form….

I love the energy of word to word and playing one in the polarity of the other. This is my interpretation of the Principle of Polarity:

Principle the Fourth: The Principle of Polarity

Each hovering within their own nature Each compelled to seek the other for completion One containing the mirror divided, yet equal opposite ~ yet united discord and separation.

Splintered cells which once held the magnetic nature of wholeness and graceful duets of shape, form and mass moving in rhythm guided as curious travelers towards the destination of a harmonious Soul.

This harmony exerts its cunning charms and the similarities of Spirit contained within each that calls itself One magnify and extend reaching beyond its true measure forcing the issuance of the scale’s final decree.

And what is the final discourse of this dual nature in which all is bathed, purified and reborn in the shadow of its own reflection?

The final comfort taken in the vision of the opposing quality held in the supple vise of Universal Law.

The Kybalion
By The Three Initiates
The Yogi Publication Society Masonic Temple
Chicago, Illinois. 1912

We continue our reading of The Kybalion and explore the limitless nature of the ALL and its expression within The Universal Law of Correspondence. We have come to a basic understanding of the Mental nature of our world (s) and the resultant incomprehensibility of the more refined workings that move throughout. I have again taken a large number of quotes directly from the book in this discussion primarily for the repetitious imprint that will be made as we wade through material that is deep in its mysteries and will hopefully stimulate what lies embedded in the unconscious memory. At the end of this post you will find a few new resources relating to the material presented. I would recommend taking the time to take a look at these and I think you will be surprised at what is “hidden in plain sight”.

Chapters Seven and Eight

Chapter Seven: “The All” in All

“While All is in THE ALL, it is equally true that THE ALL is in ALL. To him who truly understands this truth hath come great knowledge.”

This chapter dives right into the deep waters of concept that see the Divine or the All held within everything that is part of its own state of being. The image that comes to mind is that of the ocean; each drop contained and of itself yet still part of the larger body that is contained within each singular drop.

Those who have ventured upon any spiritual path will recognize this exercise as one perhaps that they had engaged in at some point in their seeking:

“The Teacher instructs the student to form a Mental Image of something, a person, an idea, something having a mental form, the favorite example being that of the author or dramatist forming an idea of his characters; or a painter or sculptor forming an image of an ideal that he wishes to express by his art. In each case, the student will find that while the image has its existence, and being, solely within his own mind, yet he, the student, author, dramatist, painter, or sculptor, is, in a sense, immanent in; remaining within; or abiding within, the mental image also. In other words, the entire virtue, life, spirit, of reality in the mental image is derived from the “immanent mind” of the thinker. Consider this for a moment, until the idea is grasped.”

Long ago I was taught that within our being is contained the holographic image of every other spirit ad infinitum back to the source of light and life itself. This concept has helped me stay true to my course and find the thread of inherent lineage I have to everything that was, is and more importantly will be.

“And, in the degree that Man realizes the existence of the Indwelling Spirit immanent within his being, so will he rise in the spiritual scale of life. This is what spiritual development means–the recognition, realization, and manifestation of the Spirit within us. Try to remember this last definition–that of spiritual development. It contains the Truth of True Religion.”

We are reminded that the concepts we are presented with are those of infinite mind and well beyond the powers of finite (the mental state in which we inhabit) mind’s comprehension. I find this to be true of most systems of practice and beliefs that are spiritual in nature and are concerned with what is indefinable. The study of the Qabalistic Tree is a perfect example that I can give. This system, being one that can easily be applied to multiple paths of understanding; equally so in the mundane as in the Spiritual philosophies. Yet there is, in these corporeal forms we inhabit, no way to fully comprehend the magnitude of energy and gnosis that is held within this system as a whole. Yet, this does not deter us from trying to render the information understandable and usable to advance our own spiritual growth; perhaps with thought that one day All will be revealed in its true form.

My personal experience has been that the intent of seeking deeper understanding and the applied study and observation goes very far in revealing, often in a way that is not able to be articulated, mysteries and keys that would have gone otherwise unnoticed had the attempt not been made. This is the key principle of “faith” and the belief in the efficacy of a thing or concept simply because you “know” it to be true. So, faith that the effects from the efforts made will prove viable are, at times all that we have as a point of understanding why we continue to pursue the work of spiritual development.

“The Hermetic Teachings concerning the process of the Mental Creation of the Universe, are that at the beginning of the Creative Cycle, THE ALL, in its aspect of Being, projects its Will toward its aspect of “Becoming” and the process of creation begins. It is taught that the process consists of the lowering of Vibration until a very low degree of vibratory energy is reached, at which point the grossest possible form of Matter is manifested. This process is called the stage of Involution, in which THE ALL becomes “involved,” or “wrapped up,” in its creation. This process is believed by the Hermetists to have a Correspondence to the mental process of an artist, writer, or inventor, who becomes so wrapped up in his mental creation as to almost forget his own existence and who, for the time being, almost “lives in his creation,” If instead of “wrapped” we use the word “rapt,” perhaps we will give a better idea of what is meant.”

Continuing the thought of the Qabalistic process, what is described above can be likened to the emanation of the energy of the spheres in involutionary process from the Crown (or SOURCE) of Kether. I would recommend that you take a little side trip here and read through this basic information about the Qabalistic Tree of Life for a baseline of knowledge:

This is the premise of vibration that as we ascend on the scale the vibration is lighter in frequency and the sound is higher pitched. As the vibration slows, the sonorous sound of low pitch reaches deeply into stimulating us at a physical level. Think of the parade and the resonance of vibration felt usually in the stomach as the drums pass. The high pitch of flute is barely noticeable other than that of an irritating buzz that floats on the air like the hum of a bumble bee. The lower the vibration the greater the opportunity for something concrete and visceral to be experienced. However, this is not the only component needed, the mental construct or idea to be acted upon must be fueled with focused intent.

I find this to be very interesting in the use of semantics to describe a process of creation. We, similarly use this word within our own space of Universe as we strive to still our minds, focus our intent and manifest the product of peace, calm, spiritual evolvement, etc.. In this way we are accessing our Divine birthright holding the idea of the ALL being part of all (us). We become the co-creators of our own process.

“The ancient Hermetists use the word “Meditation” in describing the process of the mental creation of the Universe in the Mind of THE ALL, the word “Contemplation” also being frequently employed. But the idea intended seems to be that of the employment of the Divine Attention. “Attention” is a word derived from the Latin root, meaning “to reach out; to stretch out,” and so the act of Attention is really a mental “reaching out; extension” of mental energy, so that the underlying idea is readily understood when we examine into the real meaning of “Attention.”

And so I will repeat my thoughts from Chapter Five regarding the paths of evolution:

As we move deeper into the streams of Being that comprise the Universe and the Laws that govern it, the need for surrender to the rough currents in rhythm and pace with the exerted effort of moving through the currents strongly and securely becomes the task of testing. Each is subsumed by the other; each moving in accord with the cyclical nature of our existence within that of the Universe. Each maintaining its own ground until the two seamlessly and effortlessly co-mingle into a singular and limitless state of being.

“ ..and You shall go on, and on, and on, to higher and still higher planes of life, for aeons upon aeons of time. The Universe is your home, and you shall explore its farthest recesses before the end of Time. You are dwelling in the Infinite Mind of THE ALL, and your possibilities and opportunities are infinite, both in time and space. And at the end of the Grand Cycle of Aeons, when THE ALL shall draw back into itself all of its creations–you will go gladly for you will then be able to know the Whole Truth of being At One with THE ALL. “

This is the goal of purpose. The evolution of the Spirit informed by the Soul’s lessons and the continual creation of a new state of being. Each, in turn being the necessary ingredient for the other to ascend the ladder of creative evolutionary process.

Chapter Eight: The Planes of Correspondence

“As above, so below; as below, so above.”

Moving into the next chapter we carry the thought of everything containing the All represented in the principle of correspondence…. “As above, so below” and the often added two lines of “As within, so without”.

“The great Second Hermetic Principle embodies the truth that there is a harmony, agreement, and correspondence between the several planes of Manifestation, Life and Being. This truth is a truth because all that is included in the Universe emanates from the same source, and the same laws, principles, and characteristics apply to each unit, or combination of units, of activity, as each manifests its own phenomena upon its own plane.”

Having arrived at the concept of immanence we are now ready to explore the uniqueness and nature of what is contained within each of the components that comprise what we consider to be the ALL and its Universe.

“For the purpose of convenience of thought and study, the Hermetic Philosophy considers that the Universe may be divided into three great classes of phenomena, known as the Three Great Planes, namely:

1. The Great Physical Plane. 2. The Great Mental Plane. 3. The Great Spiritual Plane.”

Body, Mind and Spirit! These three are what are worked upon in spiritual practice to bring into a state of alignment and dialogue with one another. These Planes are described as degrees of Manifestation, which indeed if we consider the reference to body, mind and Spirit each is part of the individual, but the physical/etheric components of each differ greatly. Add to this the query of trying to accurately describe what the term “plane” means within the scope of our understanding, and we have plenty to contemplate. Let’s begin with the concept of a Plane. The Kybalion applies the Law of Vibration as rationale with the definition of a Plane is given thusly…

“It is a fact well known to modern science, as well as to the Hermetists who have embodied the truth in their “Third Hermetic Principle,” that “everything is in motion; everything vibrates; nothing is at rest.” From the highest manifestation, to the lowest, everything and all things Vibrate. Not only do they vibrate at different rates of motion, but as in different directions and in a different manner. The degrees of the rate of vibrations constitute the degrees of measurement on the Scale of Vibrations–in other words the degrees of the Fourth Dimension. And these degrees form what occultists call “Planes” The higher the degree of rate of vibration, the higher the plane, and the higher the manifestation of Life occupying that plane. So that while a plane is not “a place,” nor yet “a state or condition,” yet it possesses qualities common to both. We shall have more to say regarding the subject of the scale of Vibrations in our next lessons, in which we shall consider the Hermetic Principle of Vibration.”

If we think about this definition, more clarity is given to the reasoning behind employing specific types of spiritual work that presumably raising the vibrational scale within the individual as a means of evolving. These practices have predominately an energetic component as the vehicle through which matter (or an identifiable physical effect) is created. Kundalini Yoga is a prime example with purpose being to awaken the potent fire-like energy that sits at the base of the spinal column. This energetic elixir moves up the central column (etherically aligned with the physical spinal column) coiling around each of the subtle chakra centers, stimulating nerve, glands and subtle fields in a way that changes the vibratory rate of the practitioner. One of the goals being that of opening the Higher chakra centers thus making the practitioner a beacon of Light, self and Divine awareness and positively effective in mundane affairs and interactions.

Breath and mantra have long been used as means of transforming the individual’s vibratory rate. Specific breathing techniques (Breath of Fire) and a mantra such as “Om Mani Padme Hum” work to regulate and refine the physiologic and adapt it to a higher rate of vibration that is more Universal in its energy. Specific positions sustained in Yoga practice working cohesively with all of the “limbs” of Yogic practice stimulate certain physiologic centers that are directly related to activating the subtle Spiritual centers. In these ways we strive to elevate ourselves to a place of resonance with the Divine.

“The atom of matter, the unit of force, the mind of man, and the being of the arch -angel are all but degrees in one scale, and all fundamentally the same, the difference between solely a matter of degree, and rate of vibration–all are creations of THE ALL, and have their existence solely within the Infinite Mind of THE ALL.”

These Three (3) Great Planes- Physical-Mental and Spiritual- are further divided into seven (7) sub-planes. I find it easier to study and grasp the concepts when given a table:

The Great Physical Plane

“The Great Physical Plane, and its Seven Minor Planes, is that division of the phenomena of the Universe which includes all that relates to physics, or material things, forces, and manifestations. It includes all forms of that which we call Matter, and all forms of that which we call Energy or Force.”

1

The Plane of Matter (A)

Solids, liquids, gases

2

The Plane of Matter (B)

Radiant matter

3

The Plane of Matter (C)

The most subtle and tenuous forms of matter

4

The Plane of Ethereal Substance

Ether- medium of transport for electricity, light, heat

5

The Plane of Energy (A)

Energy as known to science including the sub-divisions of: Heat;Light;Energy;Electricty and Attraction

6

The Plane of Energy (B)

Higher forms of energy often categorized as Natures Finer Forces- called into form by certain types of mental aspiration

7

The Plane of Energy (C)

The highest form of energy – emanating from and used by sources of the Divine

The Great Mental Plane

“The Great Mental Plane comprises those forms of “living things” known to us in ordinary life, as well as certain other forms not so well known except to the occultist.” The state of Being and mental phenomena that forms the entities of these worlds, some seen and others unseen. Each has 7-sub-divisions within its category.

1

The Plane of the Mineral Mind

That which “animates” the mineral/crystal world

2

The Plane of the Elemental Mind (A)

The vital and mental phenomena of the mineral and plant worlds

3

The Plane of the Plant Mind

The states or conditions of the Plant world- the mental consciousness of this world

4

The Plane of the Elemental Mind (B)

The higher form of Elemental energy using streams from both the plant and animal worlds

5

The Plane of the Animal Mind

That which animates the animal living form

6

The Plane of the Elemental Mind (C)

Entities that synthesize the natures of human and animal.The highest form is the semi-human.

7

The Plane of the Human Mind

The mental process common to man in its varying and used degrees

*In the case of the Plane of the Human Mind, the 7- sub divisions are considered the races of man (not to be confused with ethnicity). These are the stages of collective human development, which at any given time there are those who have reached lesser levels of understanding and fewer who have surpassed and expanded consciousness and awareness beyond the scope of the ordinary man.

I believe these Planes speak to the rising concern with environmental issues. Each of these planes affects the other in accord with the degree of attention or neglect. The ancients knew of the cross over between the planes, in particular the Plane of the Plant (Devic) Mind and the survival of Humanity, The Plane of the Human Mind. Offerings of gratitude for the taking of a tree limb that would serve as shelter were part of the act of taking. As we have become more ”civilized” this stream of connection has been muddied and in some cases the boons of a collaborative effort have been shut off completely. Establishing our individual methods of re-connecting will go a long way in re calibrating what naturally strives to work in harmony (and discord- remember the polarities!); but until the collective consciousness and Mind set of the whole are in alignment the effects will be largely transparent.

“..the Elementary Planes bear the same relation to the Planes of Mineral, Plant, Animal and Human Mentality and Life, that the black keys on the piano do to the white keys. The white keys are sufficient to produce music, but there are certain scales, melodies, and harmonies, in which the black keys play their part, and in which their presence is necessary. They are also necessary as “connecting links” of soul-condition; entity states, etc., between the several other planes, certain forms of development being attained therein–this last fact giving to the reader who can “read between the lines” a new light upon the processes of Evolution, and a new key to the secret door of the “leaps of life” between kingdom and kingdom. The great kingdoms of Elementals are fully recognized by all occultists, and the esoteric writings are full of mention of them.”

The Great Spiritual Plane

“How can we explain these higher states of Being, Life and Mind, to minds as yet unable to grasp and understand the higher subdivisions of the Plane of Human Mind? The task is impossible. We can speak only in the most general terms. How may Light be described to a man born blind–how sugar, to a man who has never tasted anything sweet–how harmony, to one born deaf?All that we can say is that the Seven Minor Planes of the Great Spiritual Plane (each Minor Plane having its seven sub-divisions) comprise Beings possessing Life, Mind and Form as far above that of Man of to-day as the latter is above the earth-worm, mineral or even certain forms of Energy or Matter. The Life of these Beings so far transcends ours, that we cannot even think of the details of the same; their minds so far transcend ours, that to them we scarcely seem to “think,” and our mental processes seem almost akin to material processes; the Matter of which their forms are composed is of the highest Planes of Matter, nay, some are even said to be “clothed in Pure Energy.” What may be said of such Beings?”

In reading about The Great Spiritual Plane, we come back to the same realization offered earlier about the level of comprehension we have available as corporeal beings…..

“Only the most advanced Hermetists are able to grasp the Inner Teachings regarding the state of existence, and the powers manifested on the Spiritual Planes. The phenomena is so much higher than that of the Mental Planes that a confusion of ideas would surely result from an attempt to describe the same. Only those whose minds have been carefully trained along the lines of the Hermetic Philosophy for years–yes, those who have brought with them from other incarnations the knowledge acquired previously–can comprehend just what is meant by the Teaching regarding these Spiritual Planes.”

I believe much of the work that we do is guided by what we have laying at the periphery of our Subtle bodies that holds the memory of past life time’s experiences of the “Divine” and the training and philosophies that hold the greater keys to unlocking some of this deeper gnosis. The rationale for keeping this information secret is held within the definition given for the word “Spirit”…

“..the meaning of “Spirit” as used by the Hermetists is akin to “Living Power”; “Animated Force;” “Inner Essence;” “Essence of Life,” etc., which meaning must not be confounded with that usually and commonly employed in connection with the term, i.e., “religious; ecclesiastical; spiritual; ethereal; holy,” etc., etc.

This is the knowledge of Spiritual Power as exacted on The Great Spiritual Planes…”used in the sense of “The Animating Principle,” carrying with it the idea of Power, Living Energy, Mystic Force, etc.” And, given this power it may be used for selfish gains or selfless action.

” … a fact which has been recognized by the majority of religions in their conceptions of Satan, Beelzebub, the Devil, Lucifer, Fallen Angels, etc. And so the knowledge regarding these Planes has been kept in the Holy of Holies in all Esoteric Fraternities and Occult Orders,–in the Secret Chamber of the Temple. But this may be said here, that those who have attained high spiritual powers and have misused them, have a terrible fate in store for them, and the swing of the pendulum of Rhythm will inevitably swing them back to the furthest extreme of Material existence, from which point they must retrace their steps Spiritward, along the weary rounds of The Path, but always with the added torture of having always with them a lingering memory of the heights from which they fell owing to their evil actions. The legends of the Fallen Angels have a basis in actual facts, as all advanced occultists know. The striving for selfish power on the Spiritual Planes inevitably results in the selfish soul losing its spiritual balance and falling back as far as it had previously risen. But to even such a soul, the opportunity of a return is given–and such souls make the return journey, paying the terrible penalty according to the invariable Law.”

I have been taught that all of the Kingdoms (Animal, Mineral, Human and Spiritual) are in process of evolution in accord with their varying degrees of development specific to their structure of composition. The Gods and Goddesses are evolving just as the species of Animal Life is. The Elemental kingdom is evolving just as the Mineral and Humanity is evolving as those of the Spiritual Plane do so. All are subject to the Universal Laws and as such there will always be two steps forward that eventually propel you three steps back. In very simple terms, I believe this to be the cycle that continues the process of incrementally moving forward. This is also the state of evolving- learning from what didn’t go so well to improve the next efforts towards what will.

We have gotten into the thick of it and I’m sure much of this information is overwhelming. My advice would be to allow these concepts to settle in wherever they will. As we move through the next chapters, things will begin to resonate and bubble up from these seeds of thought planted. I have read and re-read this book multiple times and each iteration opens something new for me to chew on for some time…..

“In conclusion we would again remind you that according to the Principle of Correspondence, which embodies the truth: “As Above so Below; as Below, so Above,” all of the Seven Hermetic Principles are in full operation on all of the many planes, Physical Mental and Spiritual. The Principle of Mental Substance of course applies to all the planes, for all are held in the Mind of THE ALL. The Principle of Correspondence manifests in all, for there is a correspondence, harmony and agreement between the several planes. The Principle of Vibration manifests on all planes, in fact the very differences that go to make the “planes” arise from Vibration, as we have explained. The Principle of Polarity manifests on each plane, the extremes of the Poles being apparently opposite and contradictory. The Principle of Rhythm manifests on each Plane, the movement of the phenomena having its ebb and flow, rise and flow, incoming and outgoing. The Principle of Cause and Effect manifests on each Plane, every Effect having its Cause and every Cause having its effect. The Principle of Gender manifests on each Plane, the Creative Energy being always manifest, and operating along the lines of its Masculine and Feminine Aspects.”

The Kybalion
By The Three Initiates
The Yogi Publication Society Masonic Temple
Chicago, Illinois. 1912

We continue our reading of The Kybalion and explore the concepts of the Universe as Mental energy and the Paradox of Divinity. These two chapters set the basis from which all other principles follow. There are a large number of quotes taken directly from the book in this discussion which seems fitting given the subject. The philosophies presented are such that they require support even within their presentation. Each concept in these chapters is dense with layer upon layer of meaning and without the seed of thought that offered the multi-faceted beauty of the resultant flower, the flower would cease to exist and become merely the imaginings of something whose existence would be undemonstrative. The concept of The All and its action of creation in the form of the mental at its highest level reaches well beyond the most philosophical of thinking about the relationship of creation and creator.

Chapters Five and Six

Chapter Five: The Mental Universe

“The Universe is Mental–held in the Mind of THE ALL.”

The first statement made is “The ALL is SPIRIT”. Followed by the obvious question of “But what is Spirit?”. This singular question has been one posed by countless seekers upon every imaginable spiritual and religious path. So where do we try to form a reasonable concept of something that is all-inclusive of everything it is as well as everything we would arguably state it isn’t?

Spirit is referenced as the “the highest conception of Infinite Living Mind”. The idea of Living Mind is not merely a composite of the definition of life and the idea of mind. This Living Mind is the most pure form of the idea of creation that produces those products that are of life.

The next step is definition of what the Universe is. Following the thought that the ALL remains whole in its form(lessness), not using the distribution of parts of itself to create what is outside of itself each possibility is eliminated coming finally to rest on the concept of creation via mental means.

The process is taken via the lens of The Law of Correspondence: As Above, So Below and the means by which Man creates..

“ ….in which MAN creates? –he CREATES MENTALLY! And in so doing he uses no outside materials, nor does he reproduce himself, and yet his Spirit pervades the Mental Creation. Following the Principle of Correspondence, we are justified in considering that THE ALL creates the Universe MENTALLY, in a manner akin to the process whereby Man creates Mental Images. And, here is where the report of Reason tallies precisely with the report of the Illumined, as shown by their teachings and writings. Such are the teachings of the Wise Men. Such was the Teaching of Hermes. THE ALL can create in no other way except mentally, without either using material (and there is none to use), or else reproducing itself (which is also impossible).”

As I stated previously, the idea of Mentalism is one that I grew up with having a background in Metaphysics and New Thought as a child. The power of the mind to create and further more to effect manifest life is one I read about in the lives of the Siddhis and Ascended Masters and Yogis. We learn in many spiritual paths that the highest aspiration is that of the heart, albeit in alignment with the mind, but that all loving compassion is the place of creation. Taking this concept to another level, however brings o the form of pure mind, the pure essence of idea and the concept of that idea from which it can become manifest.

Continuing with the concept of creation The Law of Gender comes into play. It is within the dynamics of polarity, specifically gender, which enable the flow of force and form uniting to create a singular from what began singular in nature….

“ THE ALL is ONE–the Two Aspects are merely aspects of manifestation. The teaching is that The Masculine Principle manifested by THE ALL stands, in a way, apart from the actual mental creation of the Universe. It projects its Will toward the Feminine Principle (which may be called “Nature”) whereupon the latter begins the actual work of the evolution of the Universe, from simple “centers of activity” on to man, and then on and on still higher, all according to well-established and firmly enforced Laws of Nature.”

As we move deeper into the streams of Being that comprise the Universe and the Laws that govern it, the need for surrender to the rough currents in rhythm and pace with the exerted effort of moving through the currents strongly and securely becomes the task of testing. Each is subsumed by the other; each moving in accord with the cyclical nature of our existence within that of the Universe. Each maintaining its own ground until the two seamlessly and effortlessly co-mingle into a singular and limitless state of being.

“ ..and You shall go on, and on, and on, to higher and still higher planes of life, for aeons upon aeons of time. The Universe is your home, and you shall explore its farthest recesses before the end of Time. You are dwelling in the Infinite Mind of THE ALL, and your possibilities and opportunities are infinite, both in time and space. And at the end of the Grand Cycle of Aeons, when THE ALL shall draw back into itself all of its creations–you will go gladly for you will then be able to know the Whole Truth of being At One with THE ALL. “

This is the goal of purpose. The evolution of the Spirit informed by the Soul’s lessons and the continual creation of a new state of being. Each, in turn being the necessary ingredient for the other to ascend the ladder of creative evolutionary process.

Chapter Six: The Divine Paradox

“The half-wise, recognizing the comparative unreality of the Universe, imagine that they may defy its Laws—such are vain and presumptuous fools, and they are broken against the rocks and torn asunder by the elements by reason of their folly. The truly wise, knowing the nature of the Universe, use Law against laws; the higher against the lower; and by the Art of Alchemy transmute that which is undesirable into that which is worthy, and thus triumph. Mastery consists not in abnormal dreams, visions and fantastic imaginings or living, but in using the higher forces against the lower-escaping the pains of the lower planes by vibrating on the higher. Transmutation, not presumptuous denial, is the weapon of the Master.”

Moving into the next chapter and having opened to the perspective that creation is formed from the mental process we come to what is considered the Divine Paradox.

“What Hermeticists know as “the Law of Paradox” is an aspect of the Principle of Polarity. The Hermetic writings are filled with references to the appearance of the Paradox in the consideration of the problems of Life and Being.”

We have an idea of the nature of polarity and it being the manifest form of the All’s Infinite Mind and the slippery slope of philosophical pursuits when the attempt to pigeon-hole the truisms into one side or another occurs. The first paradox that we are presented with is the illusory state of the world of existence. This is not a new concept to some streams of spiritual path with the sole intent being that of piercing through the veils of illusion and seeing the state of the existence as it is and thus ending the cycle of incarnation into physical form.

“The first thought that comes to the thinking man after he realizes the truth that the Universe is a Mental Creation of THE ALL, is that the Universe and all that it contains is a mere illusion; an unreality; against which idea his instincts revolt….schools of thought. From the Absolute point of view, there is nothing Real except THE ALL, no matter what terms we may use in thinking of, or discussing the subject. Whether the Universe be created of Matter, or whether it be a Mental Creation in the Mind of THE ALL–it is unsubstantial, non-enduring, a thing of time, space and change. We want you to realize this fact thoroughly, before you pass judgment on the Hermetic conception of the Mental nature of the Universe. Think over any and all of the other conceptions, and see whether this be not true of them.”

By definition these two terms are designated as:

Absolute- A state off perfection independent from anything to support that state

Relative- Those things needing further clarification and dependent on something else to help formulate definition.

Using these definitions we can see where both are applicable to our understanding of the Universe. Even if we view the Universe as a state of unreality that is ever-changing in its form and thus revealing of its relativity, this view is in itself an absolute conclusion that has been formulated from something needing more clarity.

“Absolute Truth has been defined as “Things as the mind of God knows them,” while Relative Truth is “Things as the highest reason of Man understands them.” And so while to THE ALL the Universe must be unreal and illusionary, a mere dream or result of meditation,–nevertheless, to the finite minds forming a part of that Universe, and viewing it through mortal faculties, the Universe is very real indeed, and must be so considered. In recognizing the Absolute view, we must not make the mistake of ignoring or denying the facts and phenomena of the Universe as they present themselves to our mortal faculties–we are not THE ALL, remember.”

The reminder is one of timeliness and grace. The enjoyment and fullest expression of what we have as our resources as the first and foremost path to absorbing and being absorbed by that, which is ultimately greater than our comprehension may allow.

“We may only see through the unreality of this world and the Universe after having risen through the various planes of evolution and been reabsorbed into the Infinite Mind of the ALL.”

I repeat my impression of the duality of the Mental Universe and the All from the previously mentioned chapter (5). As we move deeper into the streams of Being that comprise the Universe and the Laws that govern it, the need for surrender to the rough currents in rhythm and pace with the exerted effort of moving through the currents strongly and securely becomes the task of testing. Each is subsumed by the other; each moving in accord with the cyclical nature of our existence within that of the Universe. Each maintaining its own ground until the two seamlessly and effortlessly co-mingle into a singular and limitless state of being.

“Nor do the Laws of Nature become less constant or effective, when we know them, likewise, to be merely mental creations. They are in full effect on the various planes. We overcome the lower laws, by applying still higher ones–and in this way only.”

The admonition is one given against the arrogance of man to presume him/herself to have “arrived” spiritually at a point of exception from the Universal Laws. This state is one to which many a seeker falls prey as the Universe appears to welcome the traveller into its elitist “club” of mysteries. In the desire to become one with the Universe and thus the All that created it perception narrows rather than expands as one small area of knowingness is replaced by another that although vaster in its reach is still only a piece of the greater source that contains it and conceptualized its form from a state of formlessness.

“The Hermetic Principle of Mentalism, while explaining the true nature of the Universe upon the principle that all is Mental, does not change the scientific conceptions of the Universe, Life, or Evolution. In fact, science merely corroborates the Hermetic Teachings. The latter merely teaches that the nature of the Universe is “Mental,” while modern science has taught that it is “Material”

The Paradox is one of Finite Cognition and Infinite expression. This scientific conclusion, which is based upon human concepts about the material (or manifest) state of the world, is the first rung on the ladder of the evolutionary expanding of man’s consciousness. This expansion is shaped and formed by what we think and the conclusions we draw from that thought process. I return again to the premise that we are Divine beings having a physical experience.

“We do not live in a world of dreams, but in a Universe which while relative, is real so far as our lives and actions are concerned. Our business in the Universe is not to deny its existence, but to LIVE, using the Laws to rise from lower to higher–living on, doing the best that we can under the circumstances arising each day, and living, so far as is possible, to our biggest ideas and ideals.”

As we come ever nearer to the realization of that Divinity we shatter the veils that are the first layer of the illusory state of our existence. There are many more that will follow but, in conclusion…

“We are all on The Path–and the road leads upward ever, with frequent resting places.”

Next Post: Chapters 7, “The All” in All and Chapter 8, The Planes of Correspondence

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If you would like to follow along, this text may be purchased at Amazon or is available free on-line at:

The Kybalion
By The Three Initiates
The Yogi Publication Society Masonic Temple
Chicago, Illinois. 1912

We continue our reading of The Kybalion and explore the concepts of the Mind and the All.

Chapters Three and Four

Chapter Three: Mental Transmutation

“Mind (as well as metals and elements) may be transmuted, from state to state; degree to degree; condition to condition; pole to pole; vibration to vibration. True Hermetic Transmutation is a Mental Art.”

This chapter had me at the title. There is something very seductive about the thought of completely changing your mental processes.

Awareness of the Power of the Mind to overcome disease, change attitude and perception and create or destroy the physical vehicle that projects its product has recently come to the foreground as being the panacea for whatever ails you. This is vastly true, but there are also many other factors and components that must be aligned in just the precise way to set up the dynamics (or vibration) that will effect suitable change. The first step is transformation of the thought patterns before Transmutation or complete and utter replacement by something entirely different may be achieved.

“Transmutation” is a term usually employed to designate the ancient art of the transmutation of metals–particularly of the base metals into gold. The word “Transmute” means “to change from one nature, form, or substance, into another; to transform” (Webster). And accordingly, “Mental Transmutation” means the art of changing and transforming mental states, forms, and conditions, into others. So you may see that Mental Transmutation is the “Art of Mental Chemistry,….”

We read that the ancients, in particular the Egyptians, were well versed in what we would consider today to be of scientific and advanced branches that correlate to mystical philosophies. They were aware of both simultaneously, each feeding the other in an informed way and drawing conclusions of practice that comprised a wholistic approach to mundane and spiritual matters that has since been unparalleled. And, in fact, we see a form of mental chemistry playing out in modern society with the advent and proliferation of courses, coaching and books that are geared at changing the pattern of thought and thus effectively changing your life. These, however, often lack the attention to the Spirit of the individual and the effects of these treatments on that part of matter that lay within the formless state of the living mind of creation.

The premise presented here is that we have within our power the ability to affect everything in manifest form by use of the Mental processes and via the Mental planes. This task is not as easily accomplished as may be thought because there is insufficient connection made between what is required as deeper knowledge and what is only the basic “formulary” used for the quick fix. The need for understanding of the basic Universal Laws that control this principle of Mental change is paramount in the efficacy of effect.

In working backwards towards the foundational principle, we are told that

“The first of the Seven Hermetic Principles is the Principle of Mentalism, the axiom of which is “THE ALL is Mind; the Universe is Mental,” which means that the Underlying Reality of the Universe is Mind; and the Universe itself is Mental–that is, “existing in the Mind of THE ALL.”

And the natural conclusion then is:

“If the Universe is Mental in its nature, then Mental Transmutation must be the art of CHANGING THE CONDITIONS OF THE UNIVERSE, along the lines of Matter, Force and mind.”

If we think on the creation myths of the Ancients, in particular, that of Atum and the rising of the primordial mound it is the “thought” that stimulates awareness of the state of aloneness and the subsequent seeding of the waters to produce more of Itself. In Qabalistic philosophies, the same is true as the brilliance of mind of Kether fuels the desire to create from its Self-awareness and the polarized pair of Chokmah and Binah are the emanations from its singularity.

For me, the idea of Mentalism is one that I grew up with having a background in Metaphysics and New Thought as a child. The power of the mind to create and further more to effect manifest life is one I read about in the lives of the Siddhis and Ascended Masters and Yogis. At the lesser levels described in The Kybalion, telekinesis and poltergeist activity would aptly fall into the designation of “psychic phenomena” and the tales of the Svengali-like mind control of hypnotists and the clinical techniques of the behavioral therapists fall nicely within “mental influence”

Chapter Four: The All

“Under, and back of, the Universe of Time, Space and Change, is ever to be found The Substantial Reality- the Fundamental Truth.”

Moving into the next chapter we carry with us a vital piece of information (or revelation, depending on your base philosophy) from the last paragraph of the former:

“We shall now proceed to a consideration of the first of the Hermetic Seven Principles–the Principle of Mentalism, in which is explained the truth that “THE ALL is Mind; the Universe is Mental,” in the words of The Kybalion. We ask the close attention, and careful study of this great Principle, on the part of our students, for it is really the Basic Principle of the whole Hermetic Philosophy, and of the Hermetic Art of Mental Transmutation.”

By and far this is probably the most paradoxical and enigmatic chapter of the book; primarily in its efforts to describe and define something that is indefinable and incalculable in its effects without the necessary interface of the (limited) concepts provided by the corporeal human mind. This is not to say that we are to blindly accept any definition or conclusion as fact nor are we to dismiss what perceptions present themselves as the stuff of human will and mind putting its interpretation on the information given. I think that these are the precursors to the flexibility of mind and perception that is needed to even minimally wrap our attention around a concept that is limitless……

“Man considering the Universe, of which he is a unit, sees nothing but change in matter, forces, and mental states. He sees that nothing really IS, but that everything is BECOMING and CHANGING. Nothing stands still-everything is being born, growing, dying-the very instant a thing reaches its height, it begins to decline–the law of rhythm is in constant operation–there is no reality, enduring quality, fixity, or substantiality in anything– nothing is permanent but Change. He sees all things evolving from other things, and resolving into other things–constant action and reaction; inflow and outflow; building up and tearing down; creation and destruction; birth, growth and death. Nothing endures but Change. And if he be a thinking man, he realizes that all of these changing things must be but outward appearances or manifestations of some Underlying Power–some Substantial Reality.”

So we are drawn back to the foundations of the concept that in order to form a place of reality, that reality must contain substance …

Having this understanding as the base from which to draw, we find ourselves mentally moving in what is essentially limitless space. These are the concepts of the form and formlessness of matter and what we perceive as being solid as nothing more than the organized design of “interrupted energy” that takes on whatever shape it is directed to take. Moving backwards through the creating process gives way to the thought that the origin of this matter that we perceive is the primary source of the continual streams of energy that are acted upon it. Therefore that inceptual point of formlessness is part of everything and as such is the All from which everything emanates.

With this idea in mind we are brought to the concluding statement of the infinite and the living attributes of the All. And, the need for living mind to beget what is at once part of the whole and therefore part of the singular. This is:

The Principle of Mentalism THE ALL is MIND; The Universe is Mental.

If we think in terms of consciousness and creation, the primal formless state of the Limitless All (or creator) is that of AM (existence). When observation and awareness is directed towards that AM, the I comes into being which stimulates the creation of something more than itself. This creative process begins with informed awareness, the mental aspect being the primary building block. Pure thought forms the concept which then can be acted upon by emotion and will. It is from this principle that the subsequent six principles emanate.

“THE ALL” is Infinite Living Mind–the Illumined call it SPIRIT!”

Next Post: Chapters 5, The Mental Universe and Chapter 6, The Divine ParadoxResource:

The Kybalion By The Three Initiates The Yogi Publication Society Masonic Temple Chicago, Illinois. 1912 Introduction: I have many favorite books that I return to frequently to refresh the information in my mind. So, naturally when I thought about the first book to discuss on this blog, The Kybalion came in front and center. Specifically, The Hermetic Laws outlined in The Kybalion are ones that I use in all of my personal work and refer to often in my teaching. The success and usefulness of this small volume is found in the statement made as part of the introduction to the book:

“Our intent is not to erect a new Temple of Knowledge, but rather to place in the hands of the student a Master-Key with which he may open the many inner doors in the Temple of Mystery through the main portals he has already entered.”

This thought of a universal application for the material contained is further supported here:

“The student of Comparative Religions will be able to perceive the influence of the Hermetic Teachings in every religion worthy of the name, now known to man, whether it be a dead religion or one in full vigor in our own times. There is always certain correspondence in spite of the contradictory features, and the Hermetic Teachings act as the Great Reconciler.”

These principles or Universal Laws were presumed to be set forth by Hermes Trismegistus, scribe of the Gods and also known in his form as Deity by the name Toth. We are told that:

“(But) among these great Masters of Ancient Egypt there once dwelt one of whom Masters hailed as “The Master of Masters.” This man, if “man” indeed he was, dwelt in Egypt in the earliest days. He was known as Hermes Trismegistus. He was the father of the Occult Wisdom; the founder of Astrology; the discoverer of Alchemy. The details of his life story are lost to history, owing to the lapse of the years, though several of the ancient countries disputed with each other in their claims to the honor of having furnished his birthplace-and this thousands of years ago. The date of his sojourn in Egypt, in that his last incarnation on this planet, is not now known, but it has been fixed at the early days of the oldest dynasties of Egypt–long before the days of Moses. The best authorities regard him as a contemporary of Abraham, and some of the Jewish traditions go so far as to claim that Abraham acquired a portion of his mystic knowledge from Hermes himself.”

Although there may be discourse of disagreement about who and what culture is responsible for these precepts, regardless of their origin they have served as the basis for most of the occult and mystical teachings throughout the ages and their influence is still the foundation of many Western and Eastern Traditions to this day.

Chapters One and Two

Chapter One: The Hermetic Philosophy The Kybalion’s authorship is simply stated as The Three Initiates. Who these initiates were has been the subject of much speculation and the publication of the material in 1912 by the Yogi Publication Society Masonic Temple has posed even further queries. Nonetheless, these seven tools are at the core of Western Hermetics and form the Universal Laws governing all magickal and alchemical working. The Kybalion is subtitled a Study of the Hermetic Philosophy of Ancient Egypt and Greece, and is dedicated to Hermes Trimegistus and his teachings that were offered and upheld as staples in the training of initiates of hermetic studies.

“To Hermes Trismegistus Known by the Ancient Egyptians as “The Great Great” and “Master Of Masters” This little volume of hermetic teaching is reverently dedicated”

The time-honored concept that when the student is ready the teacher shall appear and the doors shall be opened is affirmed in Chapter One:

“Where fall the footsteps of the Master, the ears of those ready for his Teaching open wide” and “When the ears of the student are ready to hear, then cometh the lips to fill them with Wisdom.”

So, in that spirit and assuming all are ready to broaden their perspectives or deepen what is already known, I’d like to share these principles with you, offer my understanding of them and hopefully whet your appetite to read more of this fascinating and essential book. Chapter Two: The Seven Hermetic Principles

“ The Principles of Truth are Seven; he who knows these, understandingly, possesses the Magic Key before whose touch all the Doors of the Temple fly open.”

My intent is to share with you the thoughts that presented (1.) as I meditated upon each of these principles and possibly serve to pique your own curiosity, fan the flame in your search for the truth and provide stepping stones towards your own deepening of Divine Understanding. They are outlined as below: 1. The Principle of Mentalism 2. The Principle of Correspondence 3. The Principle of Vibration 4. The Principle of Polarity 5. The Principle of Rhythm 6. The Principle of Cause and Effect 7. The Principle of Gender Each works collaboratively as well as independently of the other; something of the paradigm that is prevalent in much of esoteric study. As we move through subsequent chapters each of these concepts will be further elaborated upon, but for now a simple introduction to their basic nature will suffice.

The Principle of Mentalism

THE ALL is MIND; The Universe is Mental.

If we think in terms of consciousness and creation, the primal formless state of the Limitless All (or creator) is that of AM (existence). When observation and awareness is directed towards that AM, the I comes into being which stimulates the creation of something more than itself. This creative process begins with informed awareness, the mental aspect being the primary building block. Pure thought forms the concept which then can be acted upon by emotion and will. It is from this principle that the subsequent six principles emanate.

The Principle of Correspondence

As above, so below As below, so above

And in recent times the addition of “as within, so without” is the quintessential axiom that gives definition to the macrocosm and the microcosm being connected by similarities of dynamic and basic nature. It is this principle that inspires us to connect with our higher nature because of the reflection we see of it in the lower and physical realms. It is this principle that gives us pause to reflect on the impact we have at a larger scale based upon the inner workings of our own systems. To correspond is to affirm the “sameness” of a thing that will call to itself that of a similar nature.

The Principle of Vibration

Nothing rests; everything moves; everything vibrates.

This principle states that all of form is in a constant state of movement. Inertia is the non-movement form that remains vibration of a sort, nonetheless. Resonating with similar patterns of vibration attunes us to the subtleties held in each increment of dynamic. Vibration produces sound. Sound permeates our worlds. And it is the vibration of a sound that we respond to physically, energetically and etherically. Our breath and the subtlest of our movements disrupt the waves of vibration surrounding us as it sets into motion its own pattern of vibration.

The Principle of Polarity

Everything is Dual; everything has poles; everything has its pair of opposites like and unlike are the same; opposites are identical in nature, but different in degree; extremes meet; all truths are but half-truths; all paradoxes may be reconciled.

The Law of Polarity is the Universe filling what would be the void. It is the recognition of one state of being because of the acknowledgement of its polarized or opposite state of being. Each of these states is one in the same except for minute and un-observable differences that become more overt as the scale between each widens. Emptiness is the absence of fullness just as fullness is the absence of emptiness. They are both lacking in what the other has abundance of. Similar to the Principle of Correspondence, like attracts un-like that is simultaneously also alike as defined by the degree of its difference.

The Principle of Rhythm

Everything flows, out and in; everything has its tides; all things rise and fall; the pendulum-swing manifests in everything; the measure of the swing to the right is the measure of the swing to the left; rhythm compensates.

I see this as the companion to vibration and to some degree a subset of the Principle of Correspondence. Rhythm provides the container or boundaries (or the lacking there of) and vibration provides the quantifier or needed disruption to produce the resultant cyclical rhythm. Expansion requires a state of contraction (as the necessary point of tension) to enable it to expand anew. Either state if held too long, would result in over compensation of the other, causing a new cycle of rhythm to be established. Stillness or inertness is simply an illusion; which relates back to the connection to the Principle of Vibration once again. The illusion is that of non-movement, which although it may appear unable to be measured is a lower and longer wave of motion or rhythm that may not be perceptible unless we are in resonance with its rate of vibration.

The Principle of Cause and Effect

Every Cause has its Effect; every Effect has its Cause; everything happens according to Law; Chance is but a name for Law not recognized; there are many planes of causation, but nothing escapes the Law.

For every action there is a reaction. This is a basic principle that we drill into our children so they will be responsible adults. There is no discrimination between good or bad, just simply response that becomes the cause that has an effect that becomes the cause of a new effect, ad infinitum. This is the principle that causes us to hesitate, pause and think before we react so that we can respond instead. This is the premise that we are not insignificant in the larger scale of the Universe, be(the)cause if we did not exist the overall result of what we consider to be the Universe would not be the same definition we have of it since we would not be part of it. This is the principle that keeps us up at night trying to problem solve the best resolution to the difficult choice we must make. Each action creates a different chain of reactions in response to what issued forth initially catalyzing the cause.

The Principle of Gender

Gender is in everything; everything has its Masculine and Feminine Principles; Gender manifests on all planes.

Gender and polarity are often points of confusion. Although gender is an aspect of polarity it is a dynamic point of differentiation in its own right. Gender spans more than the physical dissimilarities that separate a man from a woman. Its energetic principle is one of expansion and contraction moving in a rhythmic force of release and receipt. On the Qabalistic Tree of Life the Pillar that provides Form is the Feminine Gender. This is the gender of receipt, contraction and boundary. The Pillar that provides Force is that of the Masculine. This is the gender of release, expansion and expulsion of formlessness. Both working rhythmically are the necessary actions for the eventual manifestation in Malkuth, the physical world. It is the container of the feminine egg that receives the insemination of the masculine sperm; the two quickening into the first stirrings of human life. In Conclusion: We don’t have to look too far to find these principles running through every level of our existence. Recognizing them is just the first step. As we explore their deeper meanings, formulate our own definitions and begin to apply the dynamics of their energies, the magick and mysteries of our place in the mind of the All will begin to reveal itself affirming that we are co-creators in the Great Work. In the next post we will begin the process of looking with deeper scrutiny at the individual Laws and their inherent impact and interaction with one another.

I have not posted on this site for quite some time and I wanted to let you all know why. In the past several months, I have been busy in the process of hiving and birthing a new coven – Coven of the Mystic Path.

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Originally posted on A Witch's Sacred Journey: I am posting the full article of this writing I did several years ago. The reminder of the many ways we change, just as the Goddess, Herself, does with the coming of every season is one that bears repeating. This is the season of Persephone and Demeter,…

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